Local teen a “model” citizen

Modeling … walking in a straight line and posing for pictures, right? Perfect makeup and hair at all times. Nothing but girly girls and people interested in fashion. Not anymore.

Meet Cleo Morris — a 16-year-old band kid and self-professed tomboy whose only foray into the public eye was winning Butch Richenback’s beginner duck calling contest in 2007.

Last year, Morris decided her shy personality and lack of confidence was “not going to get me anywhere.” Having always photographed well, Morris began looking into modeling schools. Needless to say her family was a little shocked.

Despite the sudden suggestion of modeling, Morris had done her homework. She began researching different opportunities and came across the Barbizon Modeling Academy.

Barbizon opened its first location in 1939, and now has modeling and acting centers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Thailand, Canada, the Dominican Republic and Japan. Some of Barbizon’s most famous alumni include actor Ryan Phillippe, Miss America 2010 Caressa Cameron, E! network host Guiliana Rancic, Disney Channel star Moises Arias and American Idol Season 7 runner-up David Archuleta.

Morris attends classes at Barbizon’s Little Rock location one weekend a month. On the designated Saturdays and Sundays, she has a packed schedule that includes courses on runway walking, makeup, skin care, hair care and many other topics. But Barbizon Modeling Academy has offered Morris more than just how to look her best. The modeling academy also includes courses on public speaking, poise and etiquette.

“It’s a place to better yourself,” Morris said.

Morris won’t graduate from Barbizon until June, but a few weeks ago she decided she was ready to test out the skills she’s learned.

Morris was one of 250 young ladies — almost all of which had already graduated from the academy — that auditioned for the 2013 Southwest Barbizon Model and Talent Competition. During the audition, contestants were judged on their presence, as well as a prepared commercial piece. Morris finished her audition and headed back to class, not expecting to hear good news, especially after her only classmate that auditioned was turned down earlier. Morris was in class when her mother got the call back. The judges called Morris “extremely marketable.” While she may not be the 5-10 ideal model, Morris is relatable. In jeans and a T-shirt with no makeup, she could play younger. Dressed up, she’s older.

Morris was just a handful of girls selected to attend the Dallas competition, scheduled for mid-July. At the Southwest Barbizon Model and Talent Competition, Morris will compete to be one of 22 finalists chosen to attend a five-day cruise that could possibly send her as far as Milan, Italy.

The Dallas competition alone is a major step for any aspiring model or actor. The competition is an excellent place to make contacts and meet with agents that could potentially find work for new models. She’s already made an impression in the modeling world, especially on audition judges Dale Bradshaw, Barbizon’s executive talent ambassador, and Bryan Ledger, president of BLT Management, whose clients have appeared in television shows such as CSI, House, NCIS and Bones.

“This young lady has shown me over these past months what it takes to go to the next level in her modeling and acting career,” Morris’ instructor Chanise Golatt said. “I truly believe Cleo is prepared to take on any obstacles in her future. I am honored to be her instructor.”

Unfortunately, the competition is not free. Workshop and competition fees plus travel and hotel accommodations quickly add up. Should Morris place in Dallas, future competitions or workshops could take her across the country and potentially around the world.

That’s where Morris is looking for help.

Morris and her family are seeking sponsorships and donations from Stuttgart businesses and individuals to help her reach her goals of getting to Dallas and the 2013 Southwest Barbizon Model and Talent Competition. With the unlimited possibilities that lie ahead, Morris is hoping to secure as much sponsorship as possible.

While she hopes to go far in the competition, Morris realizes that Dallas may be her last stop for now. With that in mind, she has a plan for any extra funds she might raise.

Any sponsorship money that is left following the competition will go to the Courtney Burlison Scholarship Fund. Burlison was a family friend and close friend of Morris’ older sister. She was killed in a head-on collision just outside of Stuttgart in June 2009.

Morris said she chose the scholarship fund because she wants to honor Burlison’s memory and hopes any extra funds raised will benefit Stuttgart students.

Those interested in making donations or sponsoring Morris can call (870) 456-0538 for more information. A donation account has also been set up at Farmers and Merchants Bank. A Facebook page will also be created to help residents learn more about Morris and follow her on her journey.

Morris is the daughter of Jeffery and Jennifer Bokker and Adam Morris of Stuttgart and the granddaughter of Claude Shadwick of Ulm.